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Barking Up the Designer Tree: Top Four Mixed Dog Breeds

If we’re being doggone honest, a designer breed is simply a mutt — a dog with parents of different breeds. But do we really care? Many of the designer breeds gaining popularity today are admired for their originality and undeniable cuteness. Mutts can make just as perfect of a companion as their purebred counterparts, and they actually bring a few benefits to the table. They are more affordable and at lower risk for certain diseases from which purebred dogs suffer. Health & Life has put together our top four designer breeds. Enjoy

Mystery Mutt: Okay, you got us. This isn’t really a designer breed. But even better! This hound is available at your local shelter. You’ll be getting a one of a kind dog and saving a life. 2 million dogs are euthanized each year in the United States. Make a stand, do your part, and save one of these special lives. You and your new pet will share a special bond thereafter.

Pomsky: Okay, now we’re getting into the fancy stuff. A Pomsky is a relatively new designer breed. It’s a cross between a husky and a Pomeranian. Taking a husky’s beauty and a Pomeranian’s “cuddle-me-appearance” and putting them into one breed is almost too much for a dog lover to handle. As a relatively new puppy on the market, Pomsky breeders are still looking to master the perfect pup, which for many is simply a small husky.

Goldendoodle: This designer breed has been around since the 1990s, but they are just as stylish as ever. A goldendoodle is a cross between a golden retriever and a poodle. Australians and North Americans kicked this breed off in attempt to develop guide dogs suitable for visually impaired individuals with allergies. (A poodle’s coat is similar to a human’s and does not shed as other dogs do, while a golden retriever is an exceptional guide dog.) Goldendoodles have since achieved the expected success as service dogs and are also a versatile working breed. Oh, and they are great, big cuddle buddies.

Puggle: With its drooping ears, wrinkled forehead, and curled tail, a puggle is a combination of many dog lovers’ favorite K9 characteristics. The puggle began gaining popularity in 2005 through magazine and news articles and has since become a top designer breed due to its great personality and adorable appearance.